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A city break to Faro, capital of Portugal's Algarve, may sound unusual, but put it on your bucket list now! Often overlooked, Faro deserves far more than just a passing glance. This is a city with attitude. A few days spent in Faro will delight, charm and captivate.

Subjects to in Faro encapsulate what the Algarve is all about. More than just a city, Faro is a University town with a student population of approx 8.000, so the nightlife is hectic, restaurants are buzzing and bars are hopping. Very typically Portuguese in "feel", Faro has great atmosphere with real historic links, a modern seaport, marina and the iconic Ria Formosa lagoon forming a wonderful national park area. In fact, a city break in Faro can even involve some downtime and swimming as the the sandy beach is easily accessible.

For sightseeing, a stroll around the "Cidade Vehla" or old City is a meander through medieval quarters and narrow streets where the typical ambience of the Algarve is palpable on every cobbled alleyway and traditional paved square. The ancient Cathedral or "Se" (1251) is certainly worth a visit and the pretty pyramid roofs of the local houses are a lovely sight.

The magnificent Estadio Algarve (with capacity for 30.000 fans) is a landmark in Faro where the Euro 2004 Football Championship was held. These days local matches and various concerts and festivals are hosted there.

A city break in Faro also means plenty of shopping as the stores and boutiques are superb and, because the cost of living is mercifully low on the Algarve, there are bargains galore. A little holiday in Faro also turns to evenings spent outdoors at one of the many open-air restaurants where the waft of charcoal and grilled sardines pervades. Delicious seafood and steaks, traditional cataplana and fresh clams will all tempt your palate. Pure bliss!

There are direct flights from Ireland into Faro and we have a selection of hotels in the area. Don't delay and don't forget Faro as your next city break.